GONZAGA, Cagayan (PIA) - - The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has distributed fry collection gear to 44 fisherfolk from this coastal municipality to help them collect bangus (milkfish) fry along estuarine areas during the off-fishing season..

In collaboration with the local government unit of Gonzaga, regional office of thefisheries bureau facilitated the awarding of fry collection gear to the fisherfolk in Barangay Caroan.

The distribution of the fry collection gear is part of the implementation of the National Bangus Development Program (NDBP), which is projected to produce more than 300,000 wild bangus fry annually.

The fry collection gears include 11 units of scoop nets, 40 pieces of white basins, five plastic dippers, and 10 pieces of pails with lid.

Regional Director Angel Encarnacion said that collecting bangus fry can have several economic benefits, especially in areas where milkfish farming is a significant industry.

Encarnacion said that by providing fry collection paraphernalia, the fisherfolk are motivated to utilize the abundance of the natural fry resource, which they can do during off-fishing season.

"The government’s support of the aquaculture industry will contribute to the milkfish fry supply of the region and minimize the need for fry importation,” Encarnacion said, adding that the collected bangus fry are essential inputs for the milkfish aquaculture industry.

He said that NBDP not only aims to increase fry production by providing gear to bangus fry gatherers but also supports their livelihoods, promotes sustainable fishing practices, and contributes to the preservation of fisheries resources and the well-being of the fisherfolk beneficiaries.

According to Arnold Lachica, one of the bangus fry gatherers, they rely on these fry to stock their ponds or cages, which contributes to the growth and sustainability of the aquaculture sector.

Lachica added that the fry collection can create job opportunities for other locals in their community, particularly in areas where milkfish farming is prevalent.

“Sa pamamagitan po ng fry collection, marami po itong pwedeng matulungan na makapagtrabaho mula sa pangongolekta ng maliliit na bangus hanggang sa distribusyon,” the fish farmer added.

Based on BFAR’s record, the municipality has an estimated average annual milkfish fry production of two million gathered from the wild. (MDCT/With reports from BFAR/PIA Cagayan)